Pushed Out of the Closet Without A Parachute

Gunther Allen

United States4 Books

FollowAMA (12)

Suspense New Adult Romance LGBT Biographies & Memoirs

BIOGRAPHY
Gunther Allen is a proudly queer author whose novels shine a light on the resilience, humor, and complexity of LGBTQIA+ lives. He has published four emotionally compelling books—Not Your Father’s Mafia, Road Dawgs, Coming Out in Paradise, and Pushed Out of the Closet Without a Parachute—with a highly anticipated sequel, My Big Fat Mafia Family, releasing in July.

Gunther’s writing blends romantic suspense, coming-of-age journeys, and bold social commentary. His stories challenge conservative institutions, explore the intersections of love and identity, and feature unforgettable characters navigating the beauty and brutality of being true to themselves. His books are as entertaining as they are thought-provoking, often drawing from real-life experiences and emotional truths.

Before becoming a full-time writer, Gunther led a vibrant life as a musician, competitive athlete, and creative professional. He earned his bachelor’s degree in music from Long Beach State and co-wrote a musical that was performed across Los Angeles. His passion for performance took him across continents and stages.

A proud advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, Gunther competed in the 1988 NAGVA North American Gay Volleyball Championships in Montreal and won first place in water polo at the 1989 Vancouver International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics Championships. He also founded Orange Juice Aquatics, a gay swim team in Laguna Beach, coaching and competing with the team through their victorious run at the 1994 Gay Games.

Gunther’s creative path later expanded into web publishing, photography, and graphic arts. He earned a certificate in Web Publishing and Graphic Arts in Chicago and has applied his skills across a variety of industries—from chiropractic consulting and adult entertainment to the Texas Center for the Judiciary. For over a decade, he has served as Director of Marketing and Design at Austin Rare Coins & Bullion.

He has also remained deeply committed to advocacy, volunteering as an AIDS support buddy and leading holiday outreach efforts through Laguna Shanti, delivering care baskets to people with serious illness or affected by HIV/AIDS.

Through all these chapters of his life, Gunther has never stopped writing. Today, he crafts stories that elevate queer voices, foster empathy, and spark powerful conversations about identity, family, and love in all its forms. His work celebrates the courage it takes to live authentically—and the joy that comes when we do.